Off-duty officer held armed man at Woofferton Music Festival (From Hereford Times)

Off-duty officer held armed man at Woofferton Music Festival

7:00am Friday 19th March 2010 in

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A FORMER police community support officer (CSO) from Hereford who protected a woman from a violent man is to receive a top award.

David Rowley has been awarded a chief constable’s commendation for his bravery in overpowering the man at the Woofferton Music Festival.

Chantelle Rollinson, also from Hereford, who assisted Mr Rowley, will receive a divisional commendation.

Mr Rowley, now a paramedic, was an off-duty CSO when he attended the festival last June with friends.

Inspector Ken Mackaill said Mr Rowley managed to protect the woman when a screwdriver was thrust towards her.

Mr Rowley, helped by Ms Rollinson, managed to put the attacker in an armlock until police arrived.

Insp Mackaill added: “While off duty and recognising the dangers involved, David took decisive, courageous action to control a violent armed offender in order to protect a vulnerable member of the public.”

The offender was arrested and later sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court to 36 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, after admitting affray.